The European Investment Bank (EIB) and JSC Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia) have joined forces to support Ukraine's rail transport services during a full-scale war with Russia. A significant €6.7 million EU grant agreement was signed in Kyiv to provide essential funding to Ukrzaliznytsia as it continues to keep the economy running and transport people amidst a second year of conflict.
Since the start of the Russian invasion, Ukrzaliznytsia has played a pivotal role in providing crucial transport services and evacuating people from the regions most affected by the attacks. The company has become the lifeline for transporting refugees, delivering humanitarian aid, facilitating diplomatic delegations, and transporting vital food shipments.
The €6.7 million EU grant was initially intended for the EIB Ukraine railway modernization project, aimed at upgrading and electrifying a portion of the country's railway system. However, as the war continues, the needs have changed. Following a decision by the European Commission, the grant has been redirected to provide urgent emergency support to Ukrainian Railways to ensure the continuation of railway operations and facilitate the urgent transport of passengers and humanitarian aid.
"Rail transport has proved to be crucial in providing an indispensable lifeline for the people of Ukraine, in moving refugees, and in transporting goods amid the Russian aggression against Ukraine. We acknowledge the enormous efforts made by Ukrainian Railways to ensure efficient rail operations during this extremely difficult time for the country. Cooperation in the transport sector remains a priority for the European Union, including increased rail connectivity between the EU and Ukraine,” emphasized Chloe Allio, head of the Economic Cooperation, Energy, Infrastructure and Environment section of the EU Delegation to Ukraine.
